Good Router?

[chubtub]

Ok I am looking into getting a router for security reasons (I think). Right now I am using a cable modem and have only one computer. I will be getting a new computer in 2 years or less and would like to keep the old one online for my wife and niece to use for web and word. I would like something that is somewhat easy to use and not too expensive <= 100.

I do use a software firewall and the build in XP fire wall for what that is worth. I really know nothing of routers but am good at hardware and software.

I am also looking for a little added security, nothing massive since if I get hacked they can only really look at all the games that I play.

I found this one that seems good, not too sure though.
http://www.compusa.com/products/product_info.asp?product_code=273755

Thanks in advance

[csamuels]

choosing the router isn't really the hard part, configuring it is. The router you have chosen looks adaquate for your setup. I have a similiar setup at home, 2 pcs (1 win2k pro, 1 win me) connecting to a Cable/DSL Gateway Router /w integrated firewall. But since I'm not to keen on how routers work, i allow all traffic so i can play my games w/o worry. I know I could do research and figure things out, but it works now for what i need, Net access & online gaming.

[Midknyte]

Linksys products are excellent. Very easy to set up. go for it!

make sure to change the default password. everyone and their uncle knows the default on Linksys routers is "admin".

[chubtub]

Cool thanks for the fast replies will most likely pick it up today.:)

[bushmaster]

Yup linksys BEFSR41. this way you have the option of adding additional machines if the need ever presents itself. great unit, great price.

[BlackTruckRyder]

Linksys is the only brand of router i will buy!:D

I'll tell one brand of router to stay away from is Belkin, I went through two of them in 1 week. Then i got smart and purchased a linksys.

[Eric Legge]

See this page - http://www.legge40.freeserve.co.uk/Networking.htm

Eric,

http://www.legge40.freeserve.co.uk/BuyerBeware.htm

[chubtub]

I have not picked it up yet still have to wait to get off of work.
I agree with you BlackTruckRyder on the Belkin, everything they make seems to be overpriced and cheap. Even down to there cables.

[embj]

Do NOT get a D-Link!!!! I have a cable internet connection with the D-Link DI-704P that has a built-in firewall. I got hacked with it. I even had McAfee Firewall, the XP firewall, and Zone Alarm running. I still got hacked.

[LEH66]

I have a SMC Barricade w/ print server that works pretty well. Use it so my wife and I can share dsl and printer. Setup was pretty easy too, just plug in and load cd software for private id and print server. It's kind of older now but I'd recommend it to anyone who's a novice and wants to hook up multiple computers.

[elroy]

I too vote for the SMC Barricade. I've had one for over a year now and once it was setup I never touched it again. If you watch you can grab one for $30-40.

[jmichna]

Best Buy has the Linksys BEFSR4.1 for about $60... as others have mentioned, they are reliable, easy to set up, and dependable. Linksys does a good job of publishing firmware (think: "BIOS for a router") updates, and they are easy to flash too.
jmichna

[chubtub]

Could I find the SMC Barricade at like a Best Buy or Comp USA?, or would I have to order it? Would either of you know of a place where I can look at the specs on it to take a look at it?

Thanks

[AdamP]

Well, I have a D-Link 704 router and it's great! It lets you perform remote admin and can even make a dynamic IP account act like a static IP by automatically renewing the IP address every 24 hours. It also allows you to ignore pings from the Internet. they also are good at providing upgraded firmware and it's easy to update.

Adam :cool:

[jmichna]

Originally posted by AdamP
...It lets you perform remote admin.... FYI,
This can be quite risky from a security standpoint. If you leave remote admin enabled, make sure you have a compelling reason for doing this, and make sure you create a really strong password. :mad:

[LEH66]

You can get the SMC Barricade at your local Fry's Electronics, CompUSA (it'll probably cost more), or any computer parts distributer in your area. Should be fairly inexpensive as I paid $59 for mine about 6-7 months ago. For specs on it, goto

http://www.smc.com/index.cfm?sec=Products&pg=Search&site=c&qry=barricade&x=8&y=2

There are several units called the Barricade so click on the one that interests you, there is a spec sheet available there.
LEH

[AdamP]

Well, I changed the default password and I've been ok so far. The router also does not use the standard port 80 for access to it. Occasionally I have to change the ports that are open to access my computer remotely so it is nice to have the remote admin to change that.

:cool:

[Midknyte]

read my post about the Linksys vulnerability. Upgrade your firmware if you choose to have your remote admin active.